Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer
Priestly Demolition Inc. has signed an agreement with Indigenous joint venture DJRM First Nations Construction Corporation to provide demolition services for the closure phase of the Diavik Diamond Mine in the Northwest Territories.
The project is currently in the planning stage, with Priestly Demolition preparing to carry out demolition activities beginning in 2026. Diavik, which has been operating since 2003, is scheduled to close in early 2026. The mine became the first Canadian diamond mine to surpass 150 million carats in production in 2025.
The demolition scope will include the controlled dismantling of mine infrastructure. Due to Diavik’s remote northern location, the work presents technical and environmental challenges and will require coordination with Indigenous communities and regulatory authorities to protect environmental integrity.
Priestly Demolition will work in partnership with DJRM First Nations Construction Corporation to deliver the work and support economic and community objectives in the North. Denesoline Corporation, the economic development arm of the Łutsël K’é Dene First Nation, is a member of the DJRM joint venture and is also a Diavik Participation Agreement partner.
“Diavik’s focus remains on Closing Responsibly and Closing with Care, and we are looking forward to continuing that journey with PDI and DJRM,” said Matthew Breen, chief operating officer of Rio Tinto Diavik. He noted that demolition at a remote site such as Diavik is complex and that safety and environmental protection remain priorities.
Priestly Demolition said the partnership reflects a commitment to safety, environmental stewardship and collaboration with Indigenous partners as the mine transitions into its closure phase. DJRM representatives said Indigenous partners will play a leading role in the closure process to help ensure Diavik’s environmental and community legacy aligns with northern values and long-term opportunities.
